Thirteen softball players from Ashland University have earned the prestigious 2025-26 Easton/NFCA NCAA Division II All-America Scholar-Athlete honors. Notable achievers include Ella Bruss, a nursing major with a 3.85 GPA, and Ashley Veldheer, who achieved a perfect 4.00 GPA in Sport Management. This accomplishment highlights the team's commitment to academic excellence alongside their athletic success, as Ashland finished the 2026 season with a 33-19 record and reached the NCAA playoffs for the first time in over a decade.

By the Numbers
  • 13 total players awarded All-America Scholar-Athlete honors.
  • Ashland softball achieved a 33-19 record with a 17-6 conference mark.
State of Play
  • The Eagles secured a second place finish in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference tournament.
  • Ashland not only reached the NCAA Division II postseason but also won a playoff game for the first time in 11 years.
What's Next

The strong performance of the team and individual scholars sets a hopeful precedent for future seasons, with an emphasis on maintaining high academic standards. With the rising number of All-America Scholars, Ashland softball aims to attract more talent while continuing to excel both in the classroom and on the field.

Bottom Line

Ashland University's softball program showcases a remarkable dual commitment to athletic achievement and academic prowess, as highlighted by their numerous All-America Scholar-Athlete recognitions. This blend of success could foster a stronger recruiting strategy and enhance the team's visibility at both the collegiate and national levels.